The anatomy of a bed bug

The image above is an interesting look into the anatomy and psychology of the mid 1800’s and their preoccupation with bed bugs. A few additional specifics to help identify bed bugs versus other common household pests:

A bed bug has 6 legs.

Its antennae point forward and are about half as long as the bodyâ€”not longer.

Its head is broadly attached to its body and it has no wings.

Eight legs indicate a tick or mite.

Six legs and long antennae with two spikes coming off the back (cerci) might be a roach nymph.

Bed bugs cannot fly, and will crawl into the darkest, most isolated space possible. If this is a car or RV, expect them to settle down in a crevice in the seat or RV’s mattress. To best avoid this fate, a bed that will not allow infestation is best, such as a latex mattress.